Hennessey Venom F5-M Is World's Most Powerful Manual Supercar
With a staggering 1,817 horsepower and a unique six-speed manual gearbox, the Venom F5-M promises an unmatched driving experience.
Hennessey Pushes the Limits of Power
The Venom F5-M Roadster by Hennessey is now the world’s most powerful manual-shift production car, producing an extraordinary 1,817 horsepower. The car’s performance is delivered through a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V8 engine and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
1,817 HP And A 6-Speed
This manual variant of the Venom F5 swaps out the seven-speed automated manual transmission seen in previous models, offering driving enthusiasts a more visceral connection to the car’s power. Despite the new manual setup, the Venom F5-M’s acceleration will still outshine most vehicles on the road.
A Unique Driving Experience
While modern automated transmissions may be faster, the F5-M prioritizes driver involvement over sheer speed. Manual shifting means drivers must be more attentive and engaged, and as Hennessey’s team emphasizes, this model provides an "extreme, utterly immersive driving experience." The manual gearbox, with its billet aluminum shift gate, requires constant focus, transforming the driving experience into something more challenging and rewarding for enthusiasts who appreciate the art of manual shifting.
Distinctive Design Choices
Beyond the thrilling performance, the Venom F5-M boasts striking design elements that set it apart. A key feature is its imposing 55-inch dorsal fin that runs from the roof-mounted air scoop to the rear deck, improving aerodynamics while giving the car a distinct, aggressive look. Inside, the redesigned center console features a new aluminum and carbon fiber shifter, and the car retains Hennessey’s signature yoke-style steering wheel. Additional design tweaks include a wider console and horizontally arranged air vents, ensuring the interior is as visually captivating as the exterior.
The Market for High-Powered Manuals
Hennessey’s decision to offer a manual transmission in a car with over 1,800 horsepower is a bold move, especially as many high-performance cars continue to shift toward automatic gearboxes. Despite this, the demand for high-end manual hypercars remains strong among certain driving enthusiasts. The Venom F5-M is positioned alongside other premium manual options like the Porsche 911 and the Koenigsegg CC850, but its extreme power output and unique design set it apart from the competition. With a price tag of $2.65 million, the exclusivity of the F5-M is undeniable, and all 12 units were sold out before its public reveal.
Precision and Personalization
Each of the 12 Venom F5-M Roadsters comes with highly personalized features, such as a unique paint color and carbon fiber treatments. Once a color is selected by an owner, it’s removed from future options, ensuring every car is one-of-a-kind. The use of exposed carbon fiber across the body contributes to the car’s lightweight construction, while providing a sleek, futuristic appearance.
Performance Numbers Take a Backseat
The focus on delivering an authentic, engaging ride is a core element of the car’s design philosophy. As Hennessey’s Director of Design, Nathan Malinick, noted, the Venom F5-M is for "bold and brave driving enthusiasts" seeking a car that offers much more than just straight-line speed. The thrill comes from mastering the manual transmission and taming the immense power at the driver’s disposal.